A skinny, dark-haired wizard named Harry Potter is walking in a strange, dark forest, with only a thin ray of pale sunlight slicing through the immense trees above. He didn't know where he was, or how he got there, but he thought the place looked horribly like the Forbidden Forest in the Hogwarts grounds. He tried to find his way out, but to no avail, for the vast forest seems to go on forever and ever... He could feel his own heart beating against his chest and could hear his own heavy breath among the eerie silence. Suddenly he heard someone else's footsteps shuffling through the leaves; the footsteps didn't sound human. Harry walked faster, then bursting into a run. He suddenly bumped into someone - or something, "Who is this?" he asked. "Harry, is that you?" answered a frail, but steady voice. It sounded feminine. "It's me! Theres something I have to tell you before da - " she did not finish, for there was suddenly a cold, haunting, evil laugh surrounding them - Lord Voldemort's laugh. Before the words came, he glanced at his ally, who had hard green eyes, shimmering in the darkness like glittering emeralds, semi-cloaked by a dark swathe of hair.  "Arvada Kedavra!" the words came too soon and before Harry could act, he was left seeing a burst of blinding green light; he heard the girl scream then a thump on the ground beside him. "Avada Kedavra!" he heard it again as the green light advanced toward him.

It hit his chest hard, as he suddenly sat up on his bed, in his own bedroom at the Dursleys' house, with sweat rolling down his face, hand clutching his scar on his forehead tightly. It had happened again. That strange haunting dream had invaded his sleep once more.  Harry stood up slowly, bearing the searing scar pain that traveled across his face like molten lava, burning him where that pain made contact with his skin.  But Harry endured. He had been dreaming this for over three weeks now. Harry thought to himself, glancing at the small moving picture that depicted last years quidditch team on it, hanging over his door, cradling his shaking body with his arms.  I wonder who that girl isshes brave but vulnerable. Probably older than I. She has dark hair, but Im not sureI can only guess. He had said that last part with great difficulty and shivered, but not from pain this time.  Harry did not dare to say what was on his mind, but he knew deep in his heart that it was Cho Chang who was in danger this time.

It was mid-noon by the time Harry awoke again after falling into the dream-less stupor that had taken over him after the nightmare. By the sound of it, the Dursleys were up to something downstairs and were clattering about. Harry pulled on the usual rope sweater and jeans and ambled down the stairs. He heard snatches of Dont you jump in and other sweetly phrased warnings. When he approached the living room, it seemed as if the Dursleys had finally gone batty. They were all clad in bathing attire and were splashing about in a jumbo sized woodenJacuzzi. Smack in the middle of the living room. Harry gaped at them, his jaw nearly falling off in astonishment. The Dursleys simply smiled back and continued splashing about. Harry went into the kitchen to make himself a sandwich, hearing snatches of Vernon warning Dudley again that there was a reason why there was no diving board on the Jacuzzi.

It was about quarter to four and Harry had spent nearly all day outdoors, trying to banish the mental picture of the Dursleys in the Jacuzzi tub from his mind. But at least they were busy. And as long as his dreadful aunt, uncle, and cousin were busy, Harry was safe. Savoring this thought, he took another sip of the cool iced drink a neighbor Mrs. Figg had given him. It tasted remarkably like butter beer. But before Harry could contemplate this, he heard a loud crash followed by a whoosh and Petunias throaty screams emanate from the house. He started towards the house, wondering if the inevitable had finally happened.  And it had. As Harry opened the sliding door to the kitchen, a steady stream of water trickled out of the house, and onto the patio where it pooled. He sighed, laughter playing across his face as he glimpsed into the living room. There cousin Dudley was, in bathing trunks much too small, sitting on the floor bawling. The area around him was soaked in water and what was left of the tub. Splinters of wood littered the room like shrapnel. Dudley had seemingly jumped into the Jacuzzi. Vernon scornfully eyed Harry

Get out! You are not wanted here anymore! Vernons face was about the shade of an eggplant, maybe darker. We have suffered long enough, having aa wierdie in the family! So take your wizarding rubbish and go to your wizard school and stay there! Dont you even think about coming back! Harry stood there, knitting his brows and clutching his wand. He was clueless. He wondered what could bring this awful change to Vernon and Petunia. Now as he thought about it, they had been kinder than usual, and had left him alone all summer. Perplexed, he thought about that afternoon. He had been outside, relaxing. Then he had gone in the house; there was a terrible crash. After that Harry had seen Dudley on the floor, since he had jumped into the Jacuzzi and broken it. And then, then Harry had laughed. He laughed so hard that Dudley had stopped crying and Petunia and Vernon had stopped fussing. Yes and then Vernon had given Harry the evil eye and assumed that Harry had done this mess!

HARRY POTTER! Listen to me! Please leave this house immediately before I call police! Vernon was furious and his eggplant skin color had faded into a musty purple that definitely looked un-healthy. Harry stepped forward, closer to Vernon, and reached up to his ear and whispered, Im not responsible for Dudleys weight, nor the properties of gravity. Therefore, I am NOT moving out until I wish to Vernon staggered, and fell, impacting the ground with a heavy thump. His eyes rolled back and his limbs froze. Petunia screamed and fled into the street, knocking right into a dark black dog. The dog winked at Harry who had just turned around, and threw him his wand back. Harry had terror written all over his face and could barely move.

Ten minutes later, Sirius had hauled Vernon up the stairs and onto his bed. Petunia was still in a state of shock, but had made Sirius a cup of tea. Dudley had just woken up and was emptying the fridge, since he was off his diet and out of Smeltings due to his bad behavior and low grades. Harry was standing there, a spectator to it all.   Sirius, why exactly are you here again? Harry enquired even if he had asked this question a few times before. Im here to protect you Harry. I thought that Dumbledore had sent you an owl concerning your safety already. Sirius answered in his strong voice, but Harry could tell immediately that Sirius was trying to hide his apprehension.  Harry? he started again, with a new found strength, Harry, I want to take you home with me. Ive found a nice flat, only two bedrooms mind you, just across the road on Sporadic Boulevard. Its got a nice garden and we can do your bedroom however you like it. You know with things that wizards your age like. Turning to Petunia, he said, The flat is completely equipped to handle a growing wizard like Harry. Petunia dropped the plate of biscuits she was going to serve to Sirius, watching in horror as the cookies fell all over the floor amongst the shatters of what was left of her finest bone china plate. Harry did a double take shaking him as if to wake up. He could barley believe what he was hearing, and almost did the same maneuver as Petunia with his cup. No no. Harry cant possibly go to Sporadic Boulevard! Vernon and I are his legal guardians, and you can not just simply barge in here and demand custody of the child. I am not barging in here I am asking Harry if he wishes to stay with me. It will give Vernon time to recuperate, and it will give you two some time to settle down and perhaps start a diet Sirius retorted, softly motioning to Dudley

Harry of course obliged to Siriuss offer, and had packed his things up the minute that Petunia had broken down and said yes. As soon as he got to Siriuss two bedroom flat which was in reality much bigger than Harry could imagine a two bedroom flat. Where the house or mansion was lacking in bedrooms, it had definitely made up with its countless sitting rooms, potion corridors, libraries, and of course its own Quidditch pitch. Harry was ecstatic with happiness. But as soon as he had settled, he decided to have a talk with his good friends Ron and Hermione, he hadnt heard much from them all summer

Hello Ron! How are you? Guess whose house Im at?

Hi Harry. I dont know whose house you are atIm kind of busyHermione is over.

Well thats great; I wanted to talk to her too!

Hi Harry. We are busy; could you call a little later? Said Hermione, taking over the line

Well guess whose house I am at before you leave.

Ummyour aunt and uncles?

Nope, how would I be talking to you?

Lets see, Dumbledores?

No. I havent heard of him all summer.

Wait Harry! Dont tell me you are at Siriuss house! You could be seriously endangering him! Please dont say you are at his house!

Whats so bad about me being at his house? You of all people would at least try to be happy for me!

Harry. You are very misinformed. Didnt he tell you that he wasnt fully pardoned? They dont want him out in the open, especially since Voldemort is on the loose. You being so far from your secret keeper makes you vulnerable as well as Sirius!

What? I have a secret keeper? And Sirius has been pardoned? I dont believe it!

Well you better believe it Harry. And then you better get out of there and back to your Aunt and Uncles house, before you end up dead.

No way. Im not leaving. If there was something wrong with me being here, dont you think that Dumbledore or someone would have told me already?

Harry, dont be stupid, Dumbledore is busy tracking down Voldemort. He doesnt have time to hunt down one single boy when the lives of thousands lie in the dark lords hands. Just make it easy on yourself and leave.

Im not leaving. I dont care what you say. If theres a problem with me being here, Dumbledore or Sirius will tell me.

Whatever you say. I dont care. You are just endangering yourself and Sirius. Its not like our lives arent on the line

Gosh. I expected some happiness from you guys. Im sorry to have even disturbed you. Looks like you have better things to do than talk to your best friend.

Harry hung up, anger surging through his veins. How could his best friends treat him this way? He expected his friends to be happy for him and maybe ask to come over. But if what Hermione said was true, and then Harry could be in grave danger.

Later that night Harry dreamed the dreadful dream again. Only this time his ally was crying into Harrys shoulder before the Arvada kedavra curse struck her down. Harry tried to get a better glimpse of her face, but was unsuccessful. It was too dark. 

Weeks passed, Harry and Sirius had a wonderful summer together. When it was almost time for school to start, Harry was ready to go on the pilgrimage to Diagon Alley. All he needed was a call or Owl from Hermione or Ron. But they never bothered. So Sirius and Harry went alone. It was then that Harry brought up Siriuss pardon.

Hey Snuffles. Harry mused

What stinker? Sirius laughed, and pulled Harry into the Leaky Caldron

Sirius, why were you all of a sudden able to take me home with you?

Harry, not now. Why dont you have a chilled Butterbeer?

No Sirius, I need to know. Am I putting you in danger?

Harry. dont be insane. Of course not. Dumbledore simply wouldnt allow it!

Are you sure? Have you even heard of him all summer? Harry asked, curiosity gnawing at him.

Sirius passed into an unusual silence, leaving Harry to wonder what the heck was up.

A Frail Shadow Passes over Hogwarts

It was Harrys first day back at school. As he looked around the great hall that he had just planted his feet in, he read anxiety in every face that had set gaze on him. Harry looked around for his friends, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasly, and spied them huddled away from the antics of the Gryffindor table, speaking in hushed voices. Hey, Harry said flatly as he approached the end of the table where they were situated. His friends nodded their heads in agreement and strode off without acknowledging Harrys greeting. Of course Harry knew why, ever since he had told his friends that he didnt see how staying at Siriuss house was putting himself in danger, Ron and Hermione had taken to urgently remembering important meetings when Harry approached them and had scuttled away without a back glance.  Harry feeling indifferent by his friends reactions plopped down where they had sat and began watching the students that were now pouring into the Great Hall. One by one, familiar faces began swimming into his vision, and to Harrys disappointment, all of them were wearing an anxious look as they set their eyes on him. But before he could ponder this, the enchanted doors of the Great Hall slammed shut with such force that would have ground any student entering through them into a bloody pulp.  Harry moved his emerald eyes along the table and focused upon an elderly wizard who had just stood up to speak. Im sure that you have all heard the news of the rise of Lord Voldemort Dumbledore paused as the students occupying the great hall shivered at the sound of Voldemort name. Because of this threat we will not be teaching our regular curriculum. We have planned an advanced curriculum that will prepare you for the dark times ahead. All regular school rules will be enforced, but because of the times, there is magic allowed on campus. However this applies for self-defense measures only. Any student who wishes to cast a spell a spell to harm another student will be executed. As Dumbledore completed his last sentence, several students stood up in disbelief. Frightful stammers of what, executed? filled the hall. Sorry students, I meant expelled, sorry Dumbledore sat down again and watched as the students calmed down. When the last student had sat down, Dumbledore smiled and with a wave of his wrinkled hand, plates began to appear on the four long tables that occupied the great hall. Then with the snap of his fingers, a steaming hot banquet materialized itself onto the students plates. As if the students were one, the hall was filled with chomps, gulps and chewing noises. Harry stared down at his own plate, filled with turkey and potatoes and grimaced. He had lost his appetite. Harry made eye contact with Dumbledore (who himself was gulping down a goblet of pumpkin juice) and at once he smiled. Immediately Harrys plated filled itself with an assortment of greens along with a block of fried tofu. Dumbledore often forgot Harry was a vegan. But Harry was grateful for his support, so Harry nonchalantly got up and strode to the table furthest from the door. Hello Professor. Thank you for umm, making me a special order No problem Harry Dumbledore commented. Harry peeked at the contents of Dumbledores plate and to his surprise, saw a clone of what Harry had been given. He smiled pleasantly and flounced off to his seat by the door. But before he reached his destination, the doors opened with the force of a cannon. At once all the students in the hall turned to see what was in the door. Some people had to look twice in order to make out the figure of a frail girl dressed in loosely fitting robes with her wand held high above her head. She squinted in the brightness of the great hall and slowly walked towards the table furthest from Harrys table; the Slytherin table.

                Almost everyone knew that the house of Slytherin had turned out more dark wizards than any other.  And just to prove it, Harrys archenemy was Slytherin prefect. Harry himself had been selected as prefect, but he had refused, which now that Harry had come to think of it, was a big mistake. Now Ron was Gryffindor house prefect and gloating about at every occasion. But Harry strayed from those thoughts; he wanted to focus on the commotion that was now going on at the Slytherin table and the little girl that had just sat down beside Harrys enemy, Draco Malfoy.   It seemed that everyone in great hall besides him knew whom the girl was; the new student. In all of Harrys six years at Hogwarts, there had never been a new student or anyone who moved away.  He had never really given it much thought until now. Nevertheless, he just shrugged and thought it was part of wizard tradition to stay in one place for your whole life. However, there was a curiosity burning in Harrys own soul to know whom that diminutive girl was and what she was doing at the Slytherin table with Malfoy.

                 Harry munched on his food and gulped down his drink as fast as could so he could join the members of Slytherin and confront the girl, which he had come to know as Elizabeth R. Porter.   In just minutes after Harry had chewed down the last celery stick on his plate, Dumbledore had once again stood up to dismiss the eager tables. And his plan worked. Harry now stood right beside Elizabeth. Hullo Harry winced because for some odd reason his scar had begun to itch. Harry scratched it nonchalantly and continued. Hi, Im Harry. I saw you around, and thought I knew you Elizabeth interrupted with a curtsy and ran off to meet Malfoy, who embraced her with a comforting hug. Harry was disappointed, but shrugged and jogged toward the Gryffindor common room.  He continued jogging up the stairs to the sixth years dormitories where his belongings had already been neatly put away. Slowly he slumped down into the comfort of his bed. Harry had odd dreams that night.

It was like the good old days again. Harry, Hermione and Ron were walking through the musty aisles of the library searching for a book. As Hermione slowly reached for a book on curses, the new girl, Elizabeth approached her, pleading her not to look at it. Her pleads became cries; her cries became terrified screams for mercy. Slowly her tears pooled into a large silvery puddle that grew larger by the second and before long, Elizabeth was gone. She had fallen through the puddle, into the floor and Hermione, Ron, and Harry were left gaping at the words on pages of the book as they mysteriously vanished.

When Harry awoke the next morning, he half expected to see Ron snoring in the bed beside him, wanting to believe that last summer had just been a nightmare, but as Harry leaned over the bunk beside him, he was greeted by a neatly made bed. Harry sighed as he slipped into his slippers and got dressed for breakfast downstairs.

It was only until double block Herbology with the Slytherin that Harry had another chance to talk with Elizabeth.  

Hello, do you remember me from the feast yesterday? Harry asked with an air of slyness. Of course I doyoure the kid who kept bugging me Elizabeth snapped back. Harry, taken aback by her somewhat rude response, slunk off towards the lower corner of the greenhouse and hastily planted his packet of Wheads Mixed Magical Plants and Herbs. The whole block he sat there huddled up watching Elizabeth fumble with her seeds and soil. Harry wasnt exactly watching the Elizabeth part fumbling, but he focused on her delicate andscarred hands. It seemed that they had been burned severely, or to be more precise, forced into a boiling potion.

Harry contemplated this for a while, but was distracted by the chime for his next class, History of Magic. Usually this class was a total bore, but for once, he looked forward to the few hours of silence so he could regain the many hours of sleep lost thanks to the odd dream he had the previous night. Slumping into his chair, Harry looked toward the front of the room, half expecting to see the Ghost professor Binns. He was completely surprised when he caught the muffled odor of cats and faint cabbage diffusing through the room. It seemed to be coming from a young beautiful figure at the head of the room, writing her name in rather large letters onto the chalkboard. Harry almost swallowed his tongue in surprise as he deciphered the large scrawled writing to mean Mrs. Arabella Figg.  Everyone in the room including the Ravenclaws and the Gryffindors,  shot approving glances across the room to friends and peers. Hermione was already busily chatting with Mrs. Figg and telling by her constant bowing and hand shaking definitely showed that Hermione revered this lady.  Ron kept shooting appreciative glances towards the back of the class where Harry was sitting. But once Ron caught the look on his face, he immediately turned around and continued to watch Mrs. Figg. Harry seemed to be the only completely shocked.

Mrs. Figgs secret

After much ooh-ing and ahh-ing Mrs. Figg settled the class down and gave the students a brief history of herself. From what Harry could decipher from her thick west-isles accent, she seemed to be an ardent feminist with a large thirst for adventure. Harry believed that if ever a lady like this were to show up on Privet drive or the vicinity, she would immediately be branded a pirate of sort by some clueless muggles. He also caught on that it was her family that had at first rebelled against witch burnings in the 1600s. Harry actually suspected that it wasnt her family but her who had protested because he found it quite odd that she kept mentioning the name Nicolas Flamel. Harry also learned in the hour that she kept the gaze and devout attention of the class that she had once been under the imperious curse by Voldemort. Being one of the first and the first woman in Voldemorts circle of closest supporters, she had not thought ill of his impeccable manners and handsome features. But one day she found herself unable to trust that Voldemort had good intentions. It was then that she was put under the spell. After realization that she was completely under the Dark Lords control she began to fight the curse. Slowly over a period of 16 months, she broke the curse but did not escape at first. She contacted one of her friends. Begging them for reconcile, they saved her and became one of the first to realize that Voldemort had to be deleted and posed a definite threat to the world. She later became one of Voldemorts most hated adversaries and Voldemort later vowed to destroy the family that had helped her. Harry was totally spellbound by his new teacher. It seemed that everyone else in the room was too.

As soon as Harry finished contemplating this, Mrs. Figg stopped her story and looked at her shiny watch. Class? Do you wish to leave a few minutes early? The room resounded with cheers, as far as Harry knew, no teacher let their students out early just because. The Hufflepuffs and Gryffindors quickly filed out, and Harry got up to leave, but before he knew it, Mrs. Figg strode up to him and shoved him back in to his desk. Potter, stay here She made sure that the door was closed before sitting in the desk in front of him and turning around to look him in his face. Harry Potter? Are you the same who almost triumphed over-over the man who has been know as Voldemort? Harry just stammered a quick and insolent yes miss. She continued to gaze at him, taking in his every detail. As she got up and started rummaging through her desk, Harry gathered up the courage to get up and proceed to the door. Potter! she yelled after him and he cowardly came back. Harry James PotterI have a small present for you. It may not seem like much, she handed him a finely made necklace with a sparkling Lilac lily pendant on it. This necklace has much sentimental valueit is the last memory I have of my best friend. She paused, rubbing her cobalt eyes. I know you dont know her very wellI like to think that you dream of her oftenI know you were only a baby Mrs. Figg broke off and began sobbing into Harrys shoulder. After an intense crying session, Mrs. Figg straightened up and lowered her voice barely above a murmur Harry, forgive me.  I know you wont ever ever ever do this for me. Its impossiblebut Harry I need to tell you thisI have held this inside me for 16 yearsHarryIIkilled Lily.

Harry ran storming from the classroom, leaving Mrs. Figg in a pile on the cold stone floor. He was in a dream. A nightmare. It was one of those moments that didnt take impact until laterand still after years seemed surreal. Cedrics murder was one of those moments.  When Quirrel unwound his turban to reveal Voldemort was one of those moments.

Elizabeth Porters diversion

Harry barely made it to the dungeons without collapsing. He sighed as he saw an all too familiar face lurking behind the entrance to the classroom. Malfoy, I dont have time for you Elizabeth shouted at Draco, flipping her hair back and glaring at him. Draco tried to push his pasty arm around her but she just brushed him off and pointed at Harry. Malfoy, if you want to pick on someone, pick on him Harry just blankly kept walking to a desk near where Elizabeth settled.

Snape drifted towards the front of the dungeon and continued class where it had been interrupted by Malfoys shouts.

As I was saying before Malfoy interrupted me, we will proceed to make potions. Hermiones hand shot up, as usual. Snape nonchalantly motioned for her to speak. Professor, I do not believe you have told us what type of potion we are to make. According to the book we are due to recreate the works of Ville E. Poechon. Snape stared her down and continued without registering Hermiones comment. I will set out some books. I will then place you into groups of three, with one group of four. As a unit you will chose a potion out of the books and will make it together. If you do not have all the necessary ingredients, I shall supply them for you out of my famous private stores. Go along now.

Harry unobtrusively made his way towards Ron and Hermione, hoping to be accepted in to their group. But as fortune (or misfortune) would have it, Snapes macabre eyes spotted Harry and as usual, he walked towards the Gryffindors with a slight smile of sick happiness on his dace. It was time for his favorite sport, Picking on Potter.  With a sweep of his hand Snape shoved Harry into a corner where Elizabeth was already eagerly brewing something that smelled unquestionably appetizing. Harry glanced up to Snape who with a nod and a stride sent Neville and Seamus scurrying as far away from him as possible. But Snapes deed had not been completed. With another gesture he paired Hermione, Ron, Crabbe, and Goyle together, the next landed Malfoy in Elizabeth and Harrys group. Strangely, Malfoy was quiet and had nothing to say about the way Elizabeth was smiling as she poured dragon scale oil into an animated orange brew. Malfoy actually felt somewhat defeated, as the teacher that had favored him all these years had suddenly turned against him.  So Malfoy lost his sneer and his pride.

Life is not all fun and Games

After the slight explosion episode in Snapes class, Elizabeth became mildly popular with the other Slytherin students and must have gained a total confidence boost, as later on that day, she confronted Malfoy.

Malfoywhy are you always hanging around me? Have you no friends of your own? Sad the day will be when you will have to ally yourself with some Gryffindor scum, lets say Potter, in order to have to prove to your little daddy that you do indeed have friends. Harry, hearing his last name scuttled towards the large group that was forming around Draco and Elizabeths soon to be fight.

Oh reallyare you challenging me you little brat? Should I tell your little group your little secret? Maybe Snape will overhear and finally be able to tell that Dumbledork something of value

How dare you! Elizabeth had begun to shake, but as reassurance she pulled out her wand crying. Maybe I should tell these people about your little impurity? I bet youd like that! Malfoys fist balled and his smirking face turned a fiery crimson. Oh yeah? Why would you care you little freak?

Was that an insult? Elizabeth retorted

Have you become too stupid to tell the difference between an insult and a complement now?

Well at least Im not coming from a family where my mothers side is full of squibs. At least Im not related to Filch.

What did you say? Malfoys red skin turned pale, paler than usual. Im gonna get you, you nasty little waif

How dare you slander my father! I am not an before she could continue, Dracos balled fists stuck out, hitting the side of Harrys hand as he stood in to try and separate the two squabbling Slytherins.

At once, Draco began to smack, bite, and punch Harry, who easily brushed him off and turned his attention to Elizabeth who had now broken down and was crying helplessly in a small heap on the cold floor.

Its all my fault! Now Harry Potter himself has become involved in my affairs. Please let me be.

Not if I can help it. Let me take you to Madam Pomfreys so that she can make sure Malfoy didnt hex you or something.

I am fine, she sobbed, brushing swaths of dark hair out of her emerald eyes. Completely and utterly fine. Harry scooped her up, and brought her slowly to the hospital wing, completely ignoring her pleas to be put down and ignored. Harry Potter! Please, I am not being irrational. I just wish to put down onto the ground. I can completely assure you Malfoy is not smart enough to have hexed me in that short period of time. Her sedate eyes pierced Harrys with an emotion he could not grasp. As carefully as he had brought her up the stairs he set her down, smiling curtly. Im sorry Elizabeth She continued staring at him. Im sorry. I did not mean to annoy you or anythingI just wanted to make sure that you were all right. I somehow just dont want you to get hurt. She looked down, clearly embarrassed. Thank you for your concern Harry, but I have been hurt beyond the measures of human discommodes. He tried to read her expression, but it was plain and blank, showing no emotion. Her usually bright verdant eyes were cloudy, also lacking interpretable emotion. I guess Ill leave you be. It seems that you only care for those who like to feed on your pain. Malfoy is one lucky kid. Harry marched off, ignorant of the fresh tears streaming down her face.

Defense Against the Dark Arts gets dark

Harry meekly followed the winding staircase to the Defense against the dark arts wing. Being somewhat late, the wing was filled with cheerful class activities emanating through the halls ranging from wild laughter to the faint sound of quills swiftly speeding across pages of parchment. But as he reached the double wooden doors that not only separated the Defense Against the Dark arts classrooms from the rest of the school, but also protected against any escaping curses, he was met with deathly silence. As Harry placed a hand on the doors, memories of former years swam through his thoughts. He remembered Quirells uneasy stammering, the sickeningly egotistical words that came from Lockharts oversized mouth, he recalled the cheerful laughter that surrounded Lupins class room and his pleasant manner. Harry reminisced over Moodys barks of constant vigilance! In each of his years at Hogwarts, this corridor had been filled with the sounds of learning that even these thick wooden doors couldnt keep away from the rest of the world. But Harry heard nothing. In a bout of curiosity, he stuck his ear as unobtrusively as possible against the soft wood of the aged door. He listened and listened. Not even the faint scratching of Hermiones quill could be heard. Harry stood up, voicing a faint ugh as he hopped to his feet. Quickly, not knowing why, he covered his mouth, trying to hide his voice. This in turn made more noise and before Harry could scoop his bag up off the ground, the door casually swung open, frightening Harry so bad that he jumped and landed several feet from where he started. His pride shattered and embarrassment soiled across his composure, he walked gingerly into the corridor, pretending nothing had happened. He stopped every few strides, looking about him; wary of the doors he passed.

After what seemed to be longer than what the hands on his watch told him, Harry reached a tall doorway framing an immense door filled with ornate carvings. He had never seen it till now. Engrossed by the inexplicable runes that swerved and twisted on the woods surface, he placed a hand upon the door. The feeling Harry felt as his hand passed into the wood was tingly and uplifting, much like the effect of running through platform nine and three quarters had on him. But as usual it was short lived. His hand sunk completely into the door and out the other end of it, which was presumably the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom. In realization of this he quickly tried to wedge his hand out, but it was stuck. Gasping and puffing, Harry yanked and yanked his arm and panicked more and more as each second passed on his watch that was inside the door. He yanked one more time, as hard as he could, and his hand would not move. Gathering his wits he tried to get his back towards the door so that he could sit down and hopefully think of the reason why his arm went in so easily, but wouldnt budge a molecule when Harry tried to force it out. By this minute he almost had his body turned in such a way that he could just slide down, buckle his legs, and hopefully make it look like he wasnt being held captive by an old looking door with pretty pictures on it.

But the inevitable happened. Inching down with his legs, Harry stepped on his robes, and of course his left foot went sliding into the door were it got stuck and like his right arm/hand, wouldnt dislodge from the door. So now Harry was in a very uncomfortable position, spread out across the door, full of fruitless panic.

All the while, the class was laughing., because on their side, the door showed a menacing, snake-like apparition that was obviously caught in the door, full of terror. No one noticed the lightning bolt scar on his forehead, until the teacher, broad shouldered and wearing a shock of black hair like a mop opened the door. Out fell Harry, who had a most uncomfortable expression on his face.  The teacher grabbed his arm, dragged him up to her height and placed her long, misshapen wand against his face. Gently she brushed the hair across his scar away so that she could have full view of it.

Ahhh Harry Potterthe worlds most famous wizard and he isnt even old enough to shaveClass? Do you know why Mr. Potter could not get the through the door with such ease that you could. With the exception of Mr. Longbottom who had been seemingly hexed by Mr. Malfoy, I may recall. Can anyone tell me why he got stuck? The class sat in silence for a few moments, and then Hermione stuck up her hand, slowly and unsurely. Miss, it seems to me that Harry is possibly cursed? You see you told us that you replaced the old door with this one so that you could check each one of us for curses before we come in You also mentioned that people with bad intentions would have a hard time coming in. So perhaps the door not only makes it hard for people who are morally insecure to come in, but also people who have been hexed. Im pretty sure that Harry has been hexed, and not morally insecure, but I could be wrong

Elizabeth R. Porter

After she had composed herself, wiping the tears off her pale cheeks, she padded towards the dungeons, wishing to once again console herself in Snape. She found him not the best of companions, but others seemed either oblivious to her or were too concerned that something bad would happen to them if they didnt care for her security and comfort. This category also felt that she was perhaps made of china like a fine pale doll. But had any of those dolls ever been through the pain that she had been through? Maybe one. But he was totally engrossed with other matters. He had other friends, a different social life, and had definitely not suffered as much physical pain as she had. He would never understand. So Snape had to do. Her thoughts drifted to things other than self-pity as she placed her hand on the cool but rusty iron that was burned onto the dungeon door. Pushing her body weight against the door it swung open, revealing Snape bent over a cauldron, concocting some difficult smelly purple brew. Ah. Hello my dear Elizabeth Porter. What ailment brings you here at this hour? You should be with the other good little boys and girls in your dormitory, studying or doing homeworkperhaps you suffer of loneliness much like I do. No professor. I just would like to ease my mind and talk to someone who can understand me to a certain degree. I believe you fit the position well Snape turned, oddly focusing his eyes onto her exposed neck, but smiling. Elizabeth. Why do you suffer so deeply? Why cant you find happiness like the others around you? You clearly have beauty, grace, and a very high intelligence, enough to rival that Granger mudblood, perhaps more. You have charisma and a thirst to succeed. You fit the code to the perfect Slytherin student to the letter. There is not much left for you to wish for. He followed her, abandoning his smoldering potion. Elizabeth simply strode, completely ignoring him, around the room, grabbing miscellaneous ingredients off the walls and levitating them into a nearby cauldron.  When she was done choosing her ingredients, she cautiously began measuring them out, and mixing them into the cauldron to form a light blue misty concoction that swirled torpidly at the bottom of the kettle. What are you mixing there, precious? Elizabeth whipped around, scorning at Snape. Somehow I believe that I possess a greater knowledge of potions than of you. I believe it is safe to say that my father taught me well. He always was good at potions. He never did believe in all that stuff, transfiguration and such, that Dumbledore used to teach. I guess the only thing that really separates us is the fact that I respect, not abhor, Dumbledore. But what does that matter? Back to my potion. For your information it is a blighthe potion. All the user does is drink it, and instantly they will become unmarked by childhood, and will have the emotional state of that of a perfectly raised child. I see it as a remedy that helps me forget things. It makes me that way I used to be. Before mama. Snape glared at her, meaning to mumble something, but instead he stormed out, shouting that Potter had obviously messed around with someone other than Malfoy today. Elizabeth shrugged, smiled, and slugged back the delightful cloud colored potion with a savoring gesture. Elizabeth couldnt hold back a little laugh as she skipped out of the dungeons and towards the library where she would most likely find Harrys friends.

Hermiones Encounter

Elizabeth was still skipping as she heaved open the chestnut doors to the library. And luckily, as she had predicted, Hermione and Ron were both in the library, elatedly discussing something at a faraway table.

He is getting too involved with her. I keep asking people if they know where she comes from and other stuff about her but they say they never see her except during classes.

I heard she hangs out with Snape after classes. She probably is helping him on something big. I mean Hermione she is really smart. But she never shows it the way your do. Its just the little things she does. Hermione anxiously began looking around her, ultimately discovering Elizabeth eavesdropping on their conversation. Ron continued . I find her really odd to tell you the truth. First she seems not to be capable of leaving Malfoy alone, and then all of a sudden she tries her hardest to avoid him RonShut up. Shes right behind you and listening Ron swiveled around in his chair, gazing straight into Elizabeths fair and pale face. Ron gulped, blushing an unusual claret tone. Ummmmm Ron could barely speak. And this time as her bottle green eyes met his he didnt stutter of embarrassment. He had never seen such an evil face. No, she wasnt ugly. Not at all ugly. She just seemed to Ron to be the perfect Slytherinshiny dark green eyes, dark thick hair, ghastly pale skin, and an expression that simply said I told you so. Ron, HermioneI know you may hold against me the fact that I am a Slytherin, please dont! I dont think I am at all like the rest of them. Somehow I believe that I have been misplaced. you know I never even tried the sorting hat on. Professor just said shes in Slytherin and dragged me off!

Hermione stared at Elizabeth, unblinking as if she had never heard her speak before. But Hermiones silence didnt last long. After all, she was bottling with questions.

What professor??

Oh, sorry, Professor Snape is the one who put me in Slytherinbut Im not exactly here to discuss my placementI wish to speak to you about Harry, I want to know why you two completely ignore him, when obviously he is trying to be friendly to you. I think it really hurts him inside Ron and Hermione both stood up, nodding to one another, and lightly steered Elizabeth out of the library, explaining to her everything that had happened to make them avoid Harry. In turn Elizabeth told them how much she liked them and Harry and explained to them that she was truly sorry to have scared Neville the day of the explosion in Snapes class. They also came to an agreement that Elizabeth would try to speak to Harry about Sirius if they began speaking to Harry again. Elizabeth began opening up to them, telling them of her old school, her old friends, and attempted to ask them for their company on the next hogsmede trip. Hermione was the first to agree, Ron was still on the lane to recovery from his embarrassment. Finally, Hermione struck in, Hey Elizabeth, I know this is an odd comment to make, but when I first saw you burst in the Great Hall doors, I was quite intimidatedbut now, well you are one of the nicest persons I have ever met! What brought this change over you?

Elizabeth shrunk about three inches after Hermione laughingly asked this. She knew she had to answer, but was afraid of Hermiones response. About that now, well I took a blithe potionthey are kinda my specialty Hermione stopped, as the trio was walking up the stairs to the Gryffindor dormitory to fetch Harry. You made a what potion?

Oh, come on Hermione, you have never heard of a blithe potion? Ron looked on, clueless

Oh yes, you had better believe that I have heard of those! I think you are kidding me Elizabeth. No one can make those! The amounts of life force you need to make those are irrationally high! They have about a .001% success rate Ron butted in, suddenly aware of the situation, I have heard of those! They are worth like thousands of galleons, just for a teaspoon! My uncle Patrick got half a spoonful Rons voice barely exceeded a whisper on these last notes My uncle got the half spoonful to help ease the pain of dying from the languid bereavement curse. Hermione cringed, trembling and shaking, Elizabeth stared at Ron with a slight air of hurt. A tear slid down Elizabeths face as she slowly turned around, facing Harry.

Elizabeth! Why are you here in the middle of the stairs? Hermione! Ron! I am so happy to see you!  I cant believe it! Have you come for me? The trio solemnly nodded in unison. Elizabeth tried to look at Harry, but for some odd reason she had taken to holding her hand over her left eye. Whats wrong with your eye, Elizabeth? Harry grabbed her arm, trying to get a glimpse of her eye, but was suddenly overcome with a bout of strong nausea. He retched, choked and stumbled up the stairs grabbing his throbbing scar and ran into the common room door, spat out the password and entered. Ron and Hermione looked at each other and jogged into the common room to Harry, dragging Elizabeth with them. 

Thanks to Madam Pomfreys excellent medicine, Harrys bout of nausea had faded soon.